New rechargeable and washable wireless keyboard is ideal for healthcare use

iKey, which manufactures rugged computer peripherals, has launched what it believes is the industry's first rechargeable wireless keyboard designed for infection control. To date, the SBW-97-TP is iKey's most innovative and flexible user-friendly design.

The SBW-97-TP is said to be the first fully sealed, rechargeable, wireless keyboard on the market that uses QuickPair technology. QuickPair can pair to a USB dongle over a 802.11G wireless frequency without interacting with the host PC. Unlike traditional wireless keyboards, iKey's latest product does not require the user to press any buttons on the dongle or interact with the computer's operating system.

"Pairing the keyboard is only a two-keystroke procedure with any PC that has the USB dongle installed," says Dave Huddleston, iKey Operations Manager. "This is an exclusive feature that allows the keyboard to be moved across various computers or workstations with ease."

Powered by a lithium ion battery, the keyboard's battery will last for two weeks with regular use and is easily recharged with the micro USB cable. The keyboard only takes five hours to fully charge and maintains full functionality while charging.

As with all of iKey's medical peripherals, the SBW-97-TP is engineered with infection control in mind. Ideal for use in operating rooms, nurses' stations, medical carts and patient rooms, its case and silicone rubber keys are fully sealed, washable and compatible with hospital-grade disinfectants. Featuring a CleanLock key, the SBW-97-TP can be quickly and easily disabled during cleaning procedures.

"iKey's products are built to withstand difficult environments where standard keyboards will fail," adds Dave. "A keyboard is one of the most commonly touched objects in any environment. As awareness of hospital-acquired infections grows, so has the need for washable input devices."

Measuring only 14.96" x 5.91" x 0.84" (w-h-d), the SBW-97-TP includes an integrated touchpad and 10-key numeric pad. Designed to be user-friendly, it also has three LED indicators for battery life, pairing and charging.

The SBW-97-TP's case is built from rugged, ABS polycarbonate plastic and has an integrated VESA mounting pattern on the back. Perfect for use on carts and trays, the unit is also available with an optional magnetic mount, providing a hygienic alternative to Velcro, which may accumulate germs.